In an exciting development for the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Ann Arbor SPARK, alongside an esteemed cohort of organizations, selected by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), to serve as entrepreneurial hubs throughout Michigan. This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to fortifying the small business landscape across the state.
This partnership is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Michigan’s business community. We’re excited to bring a business hub here to Livingston County. Together, we will leverage our collective strengths to empower small businesses, drive economic growth, and create a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem across the state.
Gov. Whitmer and MEDC revealed this week the selection of 27 organizations, and our collaboration extends beyond Ann Arbor SPARK to include Jewish Family Services, Launch 734 from Monroe County Business Alliance, the MI-SBDC Greater Washtenaw Region, the Uplift Michigan™ Business Development Program from Michigan SBDC, and the Washtenaw Community College Entrepreneurship Center. Together, our coalition represents a diverse array of strengths and perspectives dedicated to amplifying the services and resources available to small business owners.
Administration of the grant will be facilitated by Ann Arbor SPARK, with Kristine Nash-Wong, director of entrepreneurial services at the SPARK East Innovation Center in Ypsilanti, at the helm.
“SPARK collaborated with our strategic partners to create detailed tactics and programming that provides a clear path to meaningful resources for small businesses; ensures equitable access, and builds collaborative, sustainable partnerships with community providers,” Nash-Wong said.
Ann Arbor SPARK and its diverse array of partners, including the Howell Chamber of Commerce, have been granted the maximum award of $3 million from the Small Business Support Hubs (SBSH) program. This funding will serve as a powerful catalyst for positive change, fostering economic development, diversity, and community prosperity.
The Howell Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with these esteemed organizations, is poised to contribute its unique strengths to ensure the success of this groundbreaking initiative. Together, our partners aim to make a lasting impact on the entrepreneurial landscape of Michigan, fostering growth, diversity, and prosperity throughout the state.
Janelle Best is president and CEO of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce
